The Law Office of McElyea & Barnard provides aggressive legal council to truck accident victims throughout the state of Florida. Experienced and well versed in trucking accident litigation, our semi-truck accident lawyers have obtained millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients. Below we have provided an overview of the trucking regulations that have been developed to help ensure the safety of all vehicles on the road. If you have been injured in a trucking accident, you may be entitled to collect financial compensation. Contact an Orlando, Central Florida truck accident lawyer to arrange a case consultation.
Size and Weight RestrictionsTrucking regulations and statutes for the state of Florida place restrictions on the size and weight of trucks and their loads. When traveling on streets, highways, and roads throughout the state, any vehicle that exceeds specific height, length, or width standards is considered oversized. Both oversized and overweight vehicles are required to obtain a special permit from the chief engineer of the Florida Department of Transportation. Also, under certain circumstances, oversized vehicles (or those carrying oversized loads) are required to be accompanied by one or more escort vehicles. If you were involved in an accident with a truck where these regulations may not have been met, a truck accident lawyer from our firm can help you build a strong case and recover compensation. The following are the legal limits for trucks in Florida: - Length: 75' overall
- Overhang: 3' front and 4' in rear
- Weight: GVW 80,000 lbs.
- Width: 8' 6" (on designated highways)
- Height: 13' 6"
Other Trucking Regulations
Time Restrictions – Travel is permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset. Travel permitted on Saturday and Sunday only if trailer does not exceed 10 feet in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height and 55 feet in length. Following/Passing – Trucks may not follow another vehicle closer than 300 feet, except when passing. Convoys – Driving in convoys is forbidden. Escort Vehicles– Oversized trucks (those over 12 feet wide) are required to travel with an escort vehicle. Escort vehicles should display the words "Oversized Load." Other Requirements– Standards for large trucks and other large vehicles include, but are not limited to:
- Noise emission limitations
- Registration regulations
- Safety equipment and procedures
- Alcohol or controlled substance use restrictions
- Driver's license requirements
- Routine inspection, repair, and maintenance
A violation of any of these standards may constitute negligence. If you have been involved in a trucking accident, contact the Law Office of McElyea & Barnard to schedule a consultation. An Orlando and Central Florida–area truck accident lawyer familiar with the applicable regulations will carefully evaluate your case. |